Rookie ‘Stud’ Puka Nacua sets record with 15-hit performance in Rams’ loss to 49ers

Nacua spent the first two weeks of his rookie season breaking records.

His 15 shots on Sunday were the most in a game by a rookie. His 25 total catches are the most by a rookie over two games in NFL history and the most by any rookie in any two-game stretch (Odell Beckham Jr. had 23 over two December games in 2014 ).

Nacua became the fifth player — and first rookie — in the Super Bowl era with 10-plus receptions and 100-plus receiving yards in each of his team’s first two games in a season — Cooper Kupp (2022), Myles Austin (2010), Isaac Bruce ( 1998), and Andre Rison (1994).

However, the rookie hoped to set records in victory, not in close defeat.

“I’m not really aware of what’s going on,” Nakoa said. “But my success will come when the team wins, so I’m excited for us to be able to come back and take advantage when we’re able to win. So it was great last week. I have things to improve on, so that’s great.” And everything, but the most important thing is to get that W.”

Stafford isn’t afraid to force receivers he trusts to make plays – we’ve seen that throughout his career with the likes of Calvin Johnson, Cobb, etc. The surprising aspect is that the veteran QB quickly gained a rapport with the fifth-round rookie. But as long as Nacua continues to repay that trust, Stafford is sure to continue exploiting it his way.

The question will be how the goals will move when Cobb returns from injury. They will likely diminish somewhat, but Boca has proven to have lasting potential in McVay’s attack.